(Vertical tasting with 1998 - 2000 samples. Points given above are 2002. 1998 between brackets below.) Colour: Deep brown - nearly black. Brown yellow head ['98 identical but more pearling inside the glass, and more stable head- 4] Nose yields rich chocolate, mocca, grapes, ripe plums whilst pouring; settled the smoked and cured hamodour raises up - also a nose of glycerine soap.[Chocolate, plums, spicey -cardemom peel- whilst pouring. The smokiness here is really smoked baconrind, sharper. No soapy smell - 8] Rich smoked flavour. definitely wood, also pipe tobacco. Mmm, this IS good. ['98: all the above, but more subdued. There is surprisingly more sweetness apparent. strange, in taste I prefer the younger version - 7] Both obviously very rich mouthfeel. ['98 seems lighter at first, but equals out after a while - 4] Long bitter finish; bitter chocolate, hops, coffee. the younger beer seems somewhat less bitter. I can understand why M.J. bombarded this brew into a world classic. It gives the best from both Porter and Rauchbier styles. Holy smoke! [17]

GABF 2002: I've waited a long time to try this beer. Very dark black but showing alot of red at the edges. Rich chocolatey and malty aroma. Plenty of campfire smoke in the nose. Very well balanced dark malt flavors with medium smokiness. Smooth. Outstanding.

GABF 2002: Bright amber color. Strong caramel aroma, with clean caramel flavors up front. Light bitter finish. Well balanced. One of the best ambers I've tried.